Every year hundreds of films are released, and out of those there are a select few that stand out. The process of filmmaking is a daunting task. I have respect for anyone who can complete a film. But the mere fact that a film has Been completed doesn’t mean it’s a good one. Now as I stated before I give everyone an A for effort when it comes to getting a film from brain to paper to screen. That’s a truly impressive feat. But making a good one, that’s an entirely different story. I’ve seen thousands of films over the years and while some may say that doesn’t make me a critic, I beg to differ. I’m able to spot the catastrophic failures that filmmakers make, like acting. Nothing can kill a good script faster than an green actor (see how is didn’t say bad ), another film killer is time, you can tell when filmmakers are rushed or rushing through a scene. It will show up on screen. But once in a while you get to see a good one. Which is why I’m writing this.
Recently I had the pleasure to see MICHAEL COULOMBE’S AX, produced by MARISA GARAY, CUYLE CARVIN and Michael. It’s a beautifully shot, dark-poetic short film about a mans obsession with an Ax and what that obsession drives him to. Michael has been working as a script supervisor for film & television for the past seven years. He Co-founded THE BIG BEAR HORROR-FI FILM FESTIVAL in BIG BEAR LAKE CA. He’s also a published author having released a poetry book titled: SWIMMING THE STORM available on AMAZON.COM. Which is probably one of the reasons this film is as good as it is. Its a disturbing glimpse into the mind of a man (played to perfection by TODD JAMES JACKSON ) who’s decent into madness is brought on by the Ax.
The film is beautifully shot by: DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY(S) BRANDON MUSSELMAN and CANDACE HIGGENS, the backdrop of the woods brings a ominous feel to the story. And having a great location as they did is important to a film. The wooded area is like another character in the film, the vast landscape gives the feeling of being lost or disoriented which adds to Todd James Jackson’s performance.The victim in this twisted tale is played by MARITA GOMSURD, she gives a great performance as the ill-fated wife of this possessed madman. the look on her face as she sees whats about to take place is terrifying and extremely real. Although the violence is minimal, it doesn’t effect the film. In fact it actually made it more raw and intense.
The sound is also great which is rare for a short film. This movie is the complete package, it has all the elements you want in a FILM, horror or not. Michael is a story teller and that shows in this truly beautiful film. And this being Michaels directorial debut he knocked it out of the park. Its directed very well. Horror fans should be on the look out for AX at festivals. Cant wait to see what else BEAR CLAW PRODUCTIONS has in store for us.
Review by Brad B.
